Christmas Mac & Cheese With Ham & Cranberries

Ingredients

• 1 pound elbow macaroni
• 6 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
• 1 cup shredded Gruyere cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping)
• 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping, optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.

2. Cook macaroni according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.

4. Whisk in flour until smooth, creating a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.

5. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth.

6. Stir in heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.

7. Reduce heat to low and stir in 3 cups of cheddar cheese and Gruyere cheese until melted and smooth.

8. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

9. Remove from heat and stir in cooked macaroni, diced ham, and cranberry sauce. Mix well to combine.

10. Pour mixture into the prepared baking dish.

11. Sprinkle remaining 1 cup cheddar cheese on top.

12. If desired, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

14. Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.

The Magic of Christmas Mac & Cheese

Mac and cheese is a classic comfort food. Transforming it into a Christmas-worthy dish is easier than you think.

Adding ham and cranberries introduces a festive flavor profile. This elevates the dish beyond the ordinary. It is the perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Why This Recipe Works

The combination of cheddar and Gruyere delivers a rich, nutty flavor. This is the foundation of the mac and cheese.

The ham adds a salty, savory element. Cranberries provide a tart, sweet counterpoint.

This combination makes each bite exciting and delicious. The breadcrumb topping offers a pleasing textural contrast.

Serving Suggestions

This mac and cheese makes a great side dish for your holiday meal. It can also be a main course.

Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy the festive flavors.

Customizing Your Christmas Mac & Cheese

This recipe is a great starting point. Feel free to adjust it to your preferences.

Consider different cheeses. Explore different types of ham.

Cheese Variations

Experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, fontina, or Monterey Jack would all be delicious.

A blend of cheeses adds complexity. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor.

Consider adding a touch of smoked cheese for a deeper flavor.

Ham Alternatives

If you don’t have ham, try using bacon or prosciutto. Turkey sausage would also be a good option.

These alternatives provide a similar savory element. Adjust the amount of salt accordingly.

Leftover roast chicken could also be a good substitute.

Cranberry Considerations

Use fresh or frozen cranberries for homemade cranberry sauce. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.

Store-bought cranberry sauce is also convenient. Whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce both work well.

Consider adding orange zest or a splash of orange juice to the cranberry sauce. This enhances the citrus notes.

Making Ahead and Storing

This dish can be prepared in advance. It also stores well in the refrigerator.

Planning ahead saves time and stress during the holidays.

Preparing in Advance

Assemble the mac and cheese up to the baking step. Cover tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

Add the breadcrumb topping just before baking. Bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.

Bringing the dish to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking ensures even cooking.

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover mac and cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days.

Reheat in the oven or microwave. Add a splash of milk to keep it from drying out.

Reheating in the oven will help maintain the crispy topping.

Freezing Considerations

Freezing is possible, but the texture may change slightly. The cheese sauce can become grainy.

If freezing, undercook the pasta slightly. This will help prevent it from becoming mushy when reheated.

Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

The Perfect Holiday Side Dish

This Christmas mac and cheese with ham and cranberries is more than just a meal. It is a celebration of flavor.

The combination of ingredients creates a memorable experience.

Impress Your Guests

This dish is sure to impress your guests. It is a unique and delicious addition to your holiday table.

The presentation is also important. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of paprika.

Consider serving in individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Kid-Friendly Appeal

Mac and cheese is a kid-friendly favorite. The addition of ham and cranberries adds a festive touch.

Serve with a side of steamed broccoli or carrots.

This is a great way to get kids to eat their vegetables.

Creating Holiday Memories

Food is a central part of many holiday traditions. This mac and cheese recipe can become a cherished family favorite.

Involving family members in the cooking process can make it even more special.

Share the recipe with friends and neighbors. Spread the joy of Christmas cheer.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Making the perfect mac and cheese requires attention to detail. Here are some tips and tricks.

Follow these guidelines for the best results.

Cheese Quality Matters

Use high-quality cheeses for the best flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect melting.

Shred your own cheese for a smoother, creamier sauce.

Choose cheeses that melt well.

Roux Consistency

The roux is the foundation of the cheese sauce. Ensure it is smooth and cooked properly.

Cook the roux for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the floury taste.

Whisk constantly to prevent lumps from forming.

Pasta Perfection

Cook the pasta al dente. It will continue to cook in the oven.

Overcooked pasta will become mushy.

Drain the pasta well before adding it to the cheese sauce.

FAQ: Your Christmas Mac & Cheese Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions about this recipe.

Let’s address some common concerns and queries.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes, you can experiment with different cheeses. Gouda, Fontina, and Monterey Jack are all good options. Use a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, omit the ham for a vegetarian version. Consider adding roasted vegetables such as broccoli or butternut squash.

Can I use canned cranberry sauce?

Yes, canned cranberry sauce works well. Whole berry or jellied cranberry sauce can be used. Adjust the amount to your liking.

How do I prevent the mac and cheese from drying out?

Add a splash of milk or cream before reheating. Bake covered in the oven to retain moisture.

Can I add a different topping?

Yes, crushed crackers or fried onions make a delicious alternative to breadcrumbs.